School uniform review: PV media comment

Parents Victoria has been advocating on behalf of parents for some time about the high cost of school uniforms. We have suggested greater flexibility and a more ‘generic’ approach to uniforms, so that parents are not forced to buy a full set of expensive ‘branded’ items, often with no choice of supplier.

Last week Education Minister Ben Carroll announced a review of school uniform policies. The Age reported as follows:

Expensive branded uniforms at public schools will be reviewed under a government push to ease financial pressure on families.
Education Minister Ben Carroll on Friday announced a rethink of the uniform policy in state schools, but any major changes could take months or even years to come into effect as schools wait for contracts with uniform suppliers to expire.
The government’s consultation process will involve schools, parents, students and other organisations.Carroll did not say what elements of uniforms could be updated but options being discussed include iron-on patches instead of branded clothing and generic items from chain stores instead of uniform suppliers.

Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy is quoted in the article, as follows:

Parents Victoria chief executive officer Gail McHardy said the organisation had lobbied for some time to reduce the cost of school uniforms. She said fewer logos on uniform items would also reduce the burden for school staff to enforce uniform policies. “We welcome the consultation if it leads to change in the best interest of student wellbeing,” she said.

Read the full Age article (subscription only)